City leaders and community members kicked off the 100th anniversary celebration of Frederick Douglass Park during a press conference July 7.
Named after the abolitionist, Frederick Douglass Park was founded in the Martindale-Brightwood neighborhood July 7, 1921. The park served as the first public park that welcomed Black Indianapolis residents.
During the press conference, Mayor Joe Hogsett spoke about the history of the park and how important it is to understand the legacy of Frederick Douglass and his fight for justice and equity.
“This park symbolizes both the unconquerable spirit of community and the inequity that has dominated our city’s development,” Hogsett said. “Together, we must account for both to build a better future for our young people and us all.”
Rep. Andre Carson grew up in the Martindale-Brightwood neighborhood and recalled many memories he had at the park as a child.
“I remember as a young man coming to swim with my friends,” Carson said. “After swimming we’d go to Colonial Bakery down the street, on 25th Street, and get some good food.”
Earlier this year, Hogsett announced that there will be a $20 million investment toward a new Family Center for the park as part of the Circle City Forward initiative.
Tracy Jones, a Martindale-Brightwood resident, said it took a lot of calling and reaching out to city leaders to get the money for the investment. He said he would like to see grants and continued investment in the park after the center is renovated.
With the new center, Andre Denman, principal park planner for the city, said he sees more opportunities for the community to stay up to date with what people want and need.
“When the first center was built, nobody was talking about podcasting computers,” Denman, 51, said. “So with the new design the center will be flexible with new technology and be a jewel that will bring people from all across the city to check out the park.”
Gregory Brooks, 62, has lived next to Frederick Douglass Park all of his life. He also served as the park director from 1986 to 1995.
As park director, Brooks recalled a young camper who thought the park was named after professional boxer Buster Douglas because the park used to just be called Douglass Park.
“With the park being renamed Frederick Douglass Park, it gives it some value,” Brooks said. “What we are living now will be the kids’ history tomorrow.”
Contact staff writer Terrence Lambert at 317-924-5243. Follow him on Twitter @_TerrenceL_.
Celebrate the 100th Anniversary
July 8
• 10 a.m. — Senior aerobics and yoga classes
• Noon — Free food pantry
• 5 p.m.— Community appreciation dinner
July 9
• 8 a.m. — Community golf tournament
• Dusk — Movie in the Park, “Aladdin”
July 10
• Noon — Circle Up Indy Peace Festival
